The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has convened a one-day strategic retreat with leaders of military veterans’ associations to strengthen collaboration on veterans’ welfare, unity and continued national service.

The retreat, held in Abuja, was organised under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, in collaboration with the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association of Nigeria (RANAO).

A statement by the director of defence information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, on Tuesday, said the meeting provided a platform for dialogue and renewed commitment to addressing issues affecting retired military personnel.

Represented by the chief of defence operations, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam, the CDS said sustained engagement remained the most effective way of resolving concerns raised by military veterans.

He said the welfare of retired personnel remained one of the top priorities of the DHQ under the current leadership.

Mr Oluyede said efforts were ongoing to ensure the implementation of the recently approved salary increase and the corresponding pension adjustments through the appropriate statutory processes.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to improving the welfare of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The CDS urged veterans to remain patient while the relevant processes were being concluded, assuring them that the DHQ would continue to pursue improved healthcare, prompt pension payments and enhanced welfare packages.

He also encouraged retired military personnel to continue upholding the values of discipline, loyalty and patriotism that distinguished their years in service.

According to him, the retreat also emphasised the need for stronger cooperation among veterans’ associations and encouraged retired personnel to remain active contributors to national development.

He added that participants were urged to mentor younger generations and support initiatives aimed at promoting national unity, peace and security.

(NAN)